Rainfall Causes Severe Flooding in New Mexico

Record-breaking rainfall in New Mexico triggered catastrophic flooding over the weekend, leaving two dead and hundreds rescued in Roswell.

At a Glance

Two people have been confirmed dead in severe flooding near Roswell, New Mexico.
The New Mexico National Guard rescued 309 people, with 38 hospitalized as of Monday.
Roswell received 5.78 inches of rain, breaking a 122-year-old record.
Roads were closed and homes flooded amid search and rescue efforts.

Unprecedented Flooding Hits Roswell

Roswell, New Mexico, known for its UFO lore, faced a different kind of extraordinary event as record-breaking rainfall led to catastrophic flooding. The New Mexico National Guard sprang into action, conducting extensive search and rescue operations in and around the city. The flooding, which began on Friday, has claimed at least two lives and forced hundreds from their homes.

The severity of the situation became clear as Roswell received 5.78 inches of rain, shattering a record that had stood since 1901. This deluge quickly overwhelmed local infrastructure, turning streets into rivers and trapping residents in their homes and vehicles. The Spring River, which runs through Roswell, rose to dangerous levels, contributing to the widespread inundation of the area.

Bulldozers are participating in the effort to rescue people stranded by overnight rainfall and flooding in Roswell, New Mexico. At least two people have been killed and nearly 300 people have been rescued by the National Guard, officials said. https://t.co/bv844wLpiV pic.twitter.com/haHFQ2yoNZ

— ABC News (@ABC) October 20, 2024

National Guard Leads Rescue Efforts

The New Mexico National Guard has been at the forefront of the rescue mission, working tirelessly to save lives in the flood-ravaged region. Their efforts have been crucial, with 309 people rescued so far, including 38 who required hospitalization. The Guard deployed 57 guardsmen along with tactical vehicles capable of navigating through four feet of water, demonstrating their preparedness for such extreme conditions.

“We’ve worked all night and continue to work with swift water rescue teams and other partner agencies to help our fellow citizens get to safety,” said Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar, highlighting the ongoing nature of the rescue operations.

The commitment of the National Guard to the community is evident in their pledge to “remain on duty to help Roswell as long as necessary,” as stated by Guard officials over the weekend. This dedication has been vital in mitigating the impact of what could have been an even more devastating disaster.

Widespread Impact

The flooding has had far-reaching consequences for Roswell and its surrounding areas. Roads leading to and from the city have been closed due to high water levels, with the downtown area particularly affected. Numerous homes and businesses have been inundated, and vehicles have been swept away by the powerful floodwaters. Even law enforcement officials were not spared, with Chaves County Sheriff Mike Herrington finding himself stranded and forced to stand on his vehicle’s roof as waters rose around him.

“The asphalt has been eaten away,” reported Undersheriff Charles Yslas, indicating the extent of damage to local infrastructure. This destruction has complicated rescue efforts and will likely pose significant challenges for recovery in the coming weeks and months.

Authorities set up a shelter at the Eastern New Mexico state fairgrounds for displaced residents.

Residents were urged to follow instructions from local officials and to avoid driving through flooded areas. The city made sandbags available at the Roswell Streets Department for those who can safely leave their homes. As the community faces this crisis, the resilience of Roswell’s citizens and the dedication of its first responders continue to be put to the test in the face of nature’s fury.